The Story of My Time with the Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947
For years, my workbench, lab bench, and various field sites have seen their fair share of disposable gloves. My search for reliable protection often felt like a compromise between dexterity and outright durability. The need for a robust, yet sensitive, hand covering became apparent when a particularly messy batch of industrial solvents started eating through my usual nitrile offerings. This led me to explore options with a bit more heft, and that’s when the Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 entered my periphery.
My first impression upon unboxing was the substantial feel of these gloves. They are noticeably thicker than standard exam gloves, hinting at a higher level of protection. The natural latex material felt familiar, yet the increased girth promised a different kind of performance. I had been using various brands of thicker latex and even some neoprene gloves, but I was looking for a balance that this particular Ansell model seemed to offer. There was an immediate sense of relief, a quiet confidence that my hands would be better shielded.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial foray with these gloves was at my workshop bench, specifically during a project involving degreasing intricate metal components. The Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 slipped on with a satisfying snugness, and the 12-inch length offered welcome coverage up my forearms. The 20 mil thickness was immediately apparent; it provided a palpable barrier between my skin and the harsh degreaser I was using.
Despite their thickness, the dexterity wasn’t as compromised as I had feared. I could still manipulate small screws and tools with reasonable precision, a crucial factor for detailed work. The fishscale grip pattern, a subtle but effective design choice, offered a secure hold on greasy parts. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the gloves performed as the description suggested, providing a solid, comfortable, and protective first use experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, these Ansell gloves became my go-to for a variety of tasks. I used them extensively in the lab for handling various chemical reagents, during janitorial plant maintenance that involved more aggressive cleaning agents, and even for food processing tasks where a sturdy barrier was essential. After about a month of consistent, though not daily, use for these varied applications, they held up remarkably well.
There were no signs of premature degradation, cracks, or a significant loss of elasticity. The 20 mil thickness proved its worth, offering excellent resistance against snags, punctures, and abrasions that would have likely doomed thinner gloves. Cleaning them was as simple as rinsing under running water and allowing them to air dry, and their durability meant they weren’t being relegated to the trash after a single heavy-duty use. Compared to thinner, cheaper alternatives that often split or tear with minimal provocation, these gloves demonstrated a superior level of longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947
Specifications
The Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 comes with a set of specifications that clearly define its purpose and capabilities. These gloves boast a substantial 20 mil thickness, which is considerably greater than the standard 5-8 mil found in many disposable gloves, directly translating to enhanced protection. The 12-inch length extends well past the wrist, offering crucial forearm protection against splashes and spills.
This model is constructed from natural rubber latex, a material known for its excellent elasticity and tensile strength. The fact that they are unsupported and unlined means there’s no internal fabric to snag or create discomfort, allowing for a more direct feel. The hand-specific design ensures a more natural fit and better articulation for each hand. Finally, these gloves are available in a 10 pack, with cases also being an option for bulk needs, providing a good quantity for regular users.
The compliance with FDA regulations for food contact is a significant advantage, opening up applications in the food industry that demand safe handling practices. The fishscale grip is another functional detail designed to improve tactile control, especially when dealing with wet or slippery surfaces. The pinked cuff edge aids in easy donning and doffing, preventing the cuff from rolling down during use.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of their primary function—protecting the hands—these Ansell gloves excel. The 20 mil thickness provides an exceptional defense against chemicals, abrasions, and punctures. I found them particularly effective when working with solvents and other aggressive substances that would quickly degrade thinner materials; these gloves offered a robust shield that held up admirably.
The dexterity, while understandably reduced compared to ultra-thin gloves, was still more than adequate for most tasks requiring fine motor skills. I was able to perform intricate assembly work and manipulate small laboratory equipment without feeling overly clumsy. The excellent tensile strength meant that stretching them over my hands or performing vigorous tasks did not lead to immediate tearing, a common issue with lesser quality gloves. They met and often exceeded my expectations for a medium-duty protective glove.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 is focused on functionality and protection. The natural latex material, while not as resistant to certain oils and solvents as nitrile or neoprene, provides a very comfortable and flexible fit. The 12-inch length is a thoughtfully chosen dimension, offering substantial coverage without being overly cumbersome.
Ergonomically, the hand-specific design ensures a glove that feels natural to wear, allowing for better control and less fatigue during extended use. The fishscale grip pattern is strategically placed to enhance grip without being overly aggressive or uncomfortable against the skin. The pinked cuff edge is a small but significant detail, making it much easier to pull the gloves on and off, particularly when your hands are slightly damp or when working quickly.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of these gloves is a standout feature, largely attributable to their 20 mil thickness. I experienced virtually no issues with wear and tear, even when subjecting them to demanding tasks. They resisted punctures from sharp objects and abrasion from rough surfaces far better than I anticipated for a latex glove.
Maintenance is straightforward: after use, a simple rinse with water and air drying is all that’s needed. Because of their robustness, they are not strictly disposable after a single use, which can offer cost savings for frequent users. However, it’s important to remember that natural rubber latex can degrade with prolonged exposure to UV light and certain oils, so proper storage is key to maximizing their lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 are primarily designed as standalone protective gear. While they don’t come with a suite of accessories, their design lends itself to certain functional pairings. For tasks requiring extreme precision with chemicals, one might consider using them in conjunction with an inner glove for added sensitivity, though this is not typically necessary given their excellent tactile feedback for their thickness.
The ordering information highlights that these gloves are packaged in pairs, with bulk options like cases available, simplifying procurement for businesses or individuals with higher demand. The 10 PK12 indicates that the package contains 10 pairs, and the larger case would contain 12 such packages, totaling 120 pairs. This format ensures a consistent supply of reliable hand protection.
Pros and Cons of Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947
Pros
- Exceptional Protection: The 20 mil thickness offers superior resistance to chemicals, snags, punctures, abrasion, and cuts.
- Extended Coverage: The 12-inch length provides valuable protection for the forearms.
- Good Dexterity for Thickness: Offers a surprising level of tactile sensitivity and control for a medium-duty glove.
- Durable and Reusable: Holds up exceptionally well to repeated use and cleaning, offering good value.
- Food Contact Compliant: Suitable for use in poultry, food processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
- Comfortable Fit: Natural latex provides good elasticity and a secure, comfortable feel.
- Enhanced Grip: The fishscale grip pattern ensures a reliable hold on various surfaces.
Cons
- Latex Allergy Concern: Contains natural rubber latex, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Limited Chemical Resistance: While good for many substances, it is not suitable for all oils, solvents, or aggressive chemicals where nitrile or neoprene might be superior.
- Thickness Can Be Noticeable: While dexterity is good, extremely fine manipulation might still be challenging for some tasks.
Who Should Buy Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947?
These gloves are an excellent choice for professionals and serious hobbyists working in environments that demand robust hand protection without sacrificing too much dexterity. This includes individuals in laboratory settings handling a range of chemicals, those in industrial workshops performing maintenance or assembly, and workers in the food processing and pharmaceutical industries where hygiene and protection are paramount. They are also well-suited for janitorial and plant maintenance staff who frequently encounter diverse cleaning agents and potential hazards.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals with known latex allergies, as even trace amounts can trigger reactions. Additionally, if your work involves prolonged immersion in specific aggressive solvents or petrochemicals where advanced chemical resistance is the primary concern, you might need to look at specialized nitrile or neoprene alternatives. For extremely delicate tasks requiring paper-thin sensitivity, these thicker gloves might feel a bit much, though they are still quite capable.
If you plan on using these regularly for heavy-duty applications, consider purchasing them in the Case option for better value. Complementary items would simply be proper storage solutions to prevent degradation from UV light, and perhaps a mild soap for cleaning if water alone isn’t sufficient.
Conclusion on Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947
The Ansell Healthcare Glove 20MIL Latex 12IN 10 PK12 193947 represents a compelling option for anyone seeking a durable, protective, and versatile hand covering. Its robust construction, particularly the 20 mil thickness and 12-inch length, provides a high level of confidence when working with potentially hazardous materials or in demanding environments. While not a substitute for specialized chemical-resistant gloves for extreme applications, they strike an excellent balance between protection and usability for a wide array of tasks.
At a price point that offers good value, especially when purchased in larger quantities, these gloves justify their cost through their longevity and the peace of mind they provide. I would personally recommend these Ansell gloves to anyone who finds themselves regularly going through thinner, less durable options and needs a step up in protection without completely sacrificing tactile feedback. They are a solid, reliable choice for a variety of professional and personal applications.